Eight Ways to Come First in the Search For A Rental Property

It’s no secret that Sydney’s rental market is as crazy as it’s ever been, with rents going up hundreds of dollars as demand skyrockets. With applications flying in even before the first open, it can feel like it’s impossible to keep up with the market and find a rental property. But, at the end of the day, tenants are accepted at the owner’s discretion, so here are eight ways to make a good impression and secure that rental property.

 

1. Set up alerts on property websites.

   Both Domain and Realestate.com have features that let you know when new properties that meet your criteria come on the market. Set up an alert to be one of the first to know when new properties are listed. 

2. Apply for multiple properties.

   This is pretty self-explanatory. The more options you have, the more likely you are to find a place. Don’t wait for one application to be rejected before submitting the next one. 

3. Register your interest.

   Call the managing agent and let them know you want to attend an inspection or register your interest online. If you make a good impression early, your application may be well received and your name more memorable.

4. Go to the open home.

   Managing agents can’t process applications until the first inspection is complete. So follow up on your phone call, and show your face in person at the open and show you are serious about the property.

5. Make sure your application is complete.

   Agents with lots of options aren’t going to chase you for missing identification or blank spaces on your application, so take your time to prepare all your IDs ahead of time and answer every question honestly.

6. Speak to your references first.

   Again, busy agents aren’t going to chase references if they have ten other applications in the pile. Speak to the people you put down as references and ask them to be waiting for a call from an unknown number.

7. Be ready to move in right away.

   Being able to guarantee the owner an extra week or two of rent, or even starting a tenancy a few days earlier can put you streets ahead of other tenants. If you can move in straight away, make sure you let the agent know.

8. If you are a first-time renter, get a guarantor.

   A guarantor provides a measure of security for owners since you won’t have references to prove you can be a reliable tenant. A guarantor is usually a parent, and their name goes on the tenancy application alongside yours.

 

By putting in a bit of extra effort and following a few tips and tricks, you will be able to secure a rental property to call home in no time. To speak to one of our experienced managing agents about your rental options, contact Wills Property at (02) 9387 1700